Indian Wells Valley · Kern County · California
Your Guide to Ridgecrest, CA
Your complete guide to life in the High Desert — trails, businesses, schools, events, and everything the Indian Wells Valley has to offer.
A desert city with uncommon character
Nestled at 2,290 feet in the Indian Wells Valley, Ridgecrest is a city of 28,780 that defies the assumptions people make about small desert towns. Home to Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake — the Navy's premier weapons testing facility — the community blends military precision with genuine small-town warmth.
With 294 sunny days per year, some of California's darkest skies for stargazing, and world-class geological wonders like Fossil Falls and the Trona Pinnacles within a short drive, Ridgecrest offers an outdoor lifestyle that larger cities simply can't match — at a fraction of the cost.
Explore Ridgecrest
Everything the Indian Wells Valley has to offer — always current, always free.
The Great Outdoors
World-class outdoor recreation, minutes from town.
Local Businesses
Restaurants, shops, and services across Ridgecrest.
From the Blog
Guides, tips, and stories about life in Ridgecrest.
Relocation Guide
Thinking of moving to Ridgecrest?
Whether you're PCS'ing to NAWS China Lake, drawn by the affordable cost of living, or seeking an outdoor lifestyle without the crowds — we have everything you need to plan your move.
Read the Relocation GuideFrequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Ridgecrest, CA?
Ridgecrest offers world-class outdoor recreation including hiking at Fossil Falls, stargazing under some of California's darkest skies, OHV riding, and day trips to Death Valley National Park, Mammoth Lakes, and the Eastern Sierra. The city also has a growing restaurant scene, community events, bowling, and is near Red Rock Canyon State Park.
Is Ridgecrest a good place to live?
Ridgecrest is an excellent choice for those who value affordable housing, outdoor recreation, and a tight-knit community. The median home price is well below the California average, the city enjoys 294 sunny days per year, and it offers quick access to some of the state's most dramatic landscapes. The military community at NAWS China Lake adds stability and diversity.
How far is Ridgecrest from Los Angeles?
Ridgecrest is approximately 155 miles northeast of Los Angeles, about a 2.5-hour drive via US-395 and CA-14. Bakersfield is 90 miles south (1.5 hours), and Las Vegas is about 230 miles east (3.5 hours).
What is NAWS China Lake?
Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake is the U.S. Navy's premier research, development, and testing center for airborne weapons systems. It covers 1.1 million acres — larger than Rhode Island — and is the largest employer in the Ridgecrest area, driving the local economy and supporting thousands of military, civilian, and contractor jobs.